Franchi Shotguns

[Bull Elk]

Anyone familiar with the Franchi line of shotguns? I know that they were bought a few years back by Benelli. I'm looking at a Franchi 720 (20 gauge semi auto) that went out of production in 2011 I believe. The barrel is stamped Benelli. I've read a number of reviews and they all seem to indicate that this is a quality mid-range shotgun.

I considered the CZ, Weatherby and Remington 11-87 models, but after holding the and seeing the Franchi, it was clear to me that the Franchi was better made and a nice looking shotgun.

Your thoughts are appreciated and "thank you" in advance.

FS: Browning B80 12 gauge 2&3/4". Super nice. Made in 1985 and has been well taken care of.

[BigDogatPlay]

Franchi has a long, well earned reputation for good quality at a fair price. Their 20 gauge 48AL, introduced in 1948, is still a gold standard in solid, lightweight hunting semi-autos. Being swallowed up by Benelli (which is itself a unit of Beretta), hasn't hurt their product offerings that I've seen. Their newer Affinity line replaced, I believe, the 720.

I am, largely, a Remington guy when it comes to my shotguns so my first choice in an auto is going to be an 1100 or 11-87, but if a Franchi 720 fit me well enough for starters I'd take it ahead of a CZ or Weatherby.

[runway1]

I've shot them at the Turners show. Excellent gun for the money. I would take a Franchi over the others you mentioned any day.

[Capybara]

Have you looked at the brand new Franchis? They look really nice. http://www.franchiusa.com/shotguns/

[GunninIt]

Franchis are designed with the same inertia-style as the Benellis, although they're not the exact same. Keep that in mind. That said, if I were in the market for a new semi-auto, and was limited on funds, I'd definitely consider a Franchi. The actions are so much smoother than the Weatherby and Remington IMHO.

The new Affinity is worth every penny. That said, if you're willing to jump up a little (a few hundred), then you're in Benelli Montefeltro or M2 range (at the right dealer, at least). Just a thought.